TIM Howard has warned table-topping Manchester United that his new team-mates at Everton will be ready for the challenge when the sides clash at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

The USA international is currently on a season-long loan at Goodison Park from United, but Premier League regulations mean he cannot face his parent club in the Barclays Premiership clash.

He will have to hand the gloves to understudy Richard Wright, while Everton have been forced to recall youngster John Ruddy from a three-month loan spell at Stockport to sit on the bench at Old Trafford.

And Howard believes Everton could have a shock in store for Sir Alex Ferguson's men.

Howard said: "Everton certainly will not be rolling over.

"I'm disappointed that I cannot play in this one, but I'm also excited by the occasion because I know we will be up for the challenge."

Howard recalls how determined Everton have been in the past when they played at Old Trafford with the American in the opposition goal.

He said: "I remember a couple of draws and a narrow defeat for Everton, but I recall that Everton always made things tough. You can be sure they will do so again.

"I was on the other side of the game in the last three years and it's a fixture that Everton are always up for."

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